Is it normal behaviour for a two year old two hit themselves when they are angry

My daughter just recently turned 2 years old.  When she is told no or not allowed to do what she wishes, she hits herself.  She doesn't do harm, it is more like a smack in the face type of hit.  My husband and I are concerned about this behavior and wonder if this is just a phase that she is going through?

Any suggestions would be great,

Thank you,

Kay

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Dear Kay,

You probably have nothing to worry about. The behavior your daughter demonstrates is not unusual in a two-year-old. They are not terribly effective yet in managing frustration of their wishes, and they are famous for dramatic demonstrations of their anger and frustration when something occurs (e.g., a parent saying "No") that they do not like.

Don't pay the attention any heed - simply ignore it.

[chris]

Your question reminded me a great deal of our son who was doing the same thing... hitting himself and so on.
As a new parent at the time (he was my first), I used to get very upset and panic about the question "what if he actually hurts himself ?".
My wife assured me to pay no attention to it, as he was just trying to get our attention and in the end, get his own way.
Well, our 2 yr old son , soon found out that his little plan wasn't working, so he began to threaten to " go to bed early" if he didnt get his way..
I laugh at this now, however I understand how you feel, I agree, my wife was right.. PAY NO ATTENTION TO IT, kids act very funny, I laugh about it now a great deal.
And about all those nights he went to bed early....We have another little boy as the result of our oldest giving us some peace and quite.
Your girl will get over it, trust me..

[irene56]

A related discussion, 4 yr old behavior was started.

[maybeth]

A related discussion, my childrens temputre in anger was started.